Barcelona's Summer Plans

Barcelona’s planning for next season is well under way and the club are keen to add at least four new players to their squad to keep the competition for places his, according to a report.

Samuel Eto’o’s next move will heavily influence what the Catalan outfit do to bolster their front line, while a midfielder, a left-back and a central defender are all also on the agenda.

El Mundo Deportivo believe that Franck Ribery is a player that Barça are strongly considering making a move for, despite reports that Bayern Munich are ready to resist any offers.

David Silva could be a more viable option, but the Blaugrana believe that French player would suit their system better with Pep Guardiola and Txiki Begiristain in agreement.

Eto’o’s contract expires at the end of next season and it has been well documented that if he is not quick to sign an extension then he could be replaced by David Villa.

Further back, and more revealing, is the Blaugrana’s push for a left-back as Sylvinho could leave on a free, while Eric Abidal may return to Olympique Lyonnais after failing to properly settle at Camp Nou.

CSKA’s Yuri Zhirkov is on the club’s list, but they have also been linked with moves for Manchester United’s Patrice Evra and Inter star Maxwell, although no bids have been made.

With Rafa Marquez yet to sign a new contract and Gaby Milito still to prove that he will return to full fitness, Barça are keen to add to the middle of their defence.

Henrique is alrady their player and he looks set to move to the club after spending a successful campaign on loan with Bayern Leverkusen in the Bundesliga.

Barcelona are also considering moving for another defensive midfielder as both Toure Yaya and Seydou Keita could be away for six weeks next season in the African Cup of Nations.

A lot could depend on how many trophies Barcelona win this term and how much of a shake-up Guardiola and Begiristain think is necessary, but both want at least four new faces.